Occupational accident (Arbeitsunfall)
Also: Arbeitsunfall, workplace accident, accident at work
Definition
An occupational accident is a time-limited event acting from outside that leads to damage to health or death during insured work (Section 8 SGB VII). Commuting and certain activities in the home office are also insured.
What matters is the connection with the insured activity: a fall in the workshop is an occupational accident, a private phone call during the break usually is not. Statutory accident insurance covers medical treatment, rehabilitation and pensions without asking about fault; in return, the employer is largely released from liability towards the employee – except in cases of intent.
Occupational accidents with more than three days of inability to work must be reported. Investigating accidents and analysing near misses is the task of the occupational safety specialist and managers.
Legal basis
- Section 8 SGB VII
- Section 104 SGB VII (limitation of liability)
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Related terms
This glossary entry gives a general overview of German occupational safety law and does not replace legal advice. The regulations in force and the rules of the statutory accident insurance institutions are authoritative.
